Key Events of the American Revolution

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Lexington & Concord

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First battles of the American Revolutionary War, April 1775, "The Shot Heard Round the World", an American victory

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Battle of Bunker Hill

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Early major battle outside of Boston, June 1775, a British victory, but showed American resolve to fight for independence

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Siege of Boston

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American victory, March 1776, British evacuate Boston

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Battle of Brooklyn

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August 1776, British victory, largest battle of the war, Washington and the army are forced to retreat, the British take control of New York City

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Declaration of Independence

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July 4, 1776, document declaring American independence, written by Thomas Jefferson who borrowed John Locke's idea of Natural Rights and listed grievances against King George III

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Battle of Trenton

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December 1776, surprise American victory, boosted morale

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Battle of Saratoga

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Turning point, October 1777, led to French alliance

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French Alliance

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1778, France joins war on the American side, provides crucial support to Americans

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Winter at Valley Forge

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Dec. 1777 - June 1778, Washington's winter camp, soldiers suffer from cold and lack of supplies, but train to become a stronger fighting force.

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Battle of Yorktown

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October 1781, final battle of the war, decisive American victory, the Americans and the French for the British to surrender